IPL Auction 2026: Date, time, where to watch, team funds, slots, and star players

The IPL 2026 mini auction is set to be an important day for cricket fans as all ten franchises prepare to build their squads for the upcoming season starting in late March 2026. A total of 77 player slots are available, with teams allowed to spend a combined ₹237.55 crore. With big names like Cameron Green, Venkatesh Iyer, and Ravi Bishnoi expected to draw attention, and teams like Kolkata Knight Riders holding massive funds, the auction promises fast bidding and major squad changes.

IPL 2026 auction: Date time and live streaming details

On Tuesday, December 16, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, will hold the IPL 2026 mini auction. Commencing at 2:30 PM IST, the auction will start.

View the auction live on the Star Sports Network if you live in India. For online viewing, the auction will be broadcasted on the JioHotstar app and website.

An IPL official said before the auction, “Mini auctions are always unpredictable, and teams often change plans once bidding begins.”

Who will be the most expensive buy in the IPL 2026 auction tomorrow?💸🤔 pic.twitter.com/cC9qtwFmaN

— CricketGully (@thecricketgully) December 15, 2025

Kolkata Knight Riders lead purse list ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Entering the auction with the greatest purse ever seen in a small auction are the Kolkata Knight Riders. Strong control at the bidding table comes from their ₹64.3 crore available and 13 slots to be filled.

Following the Chennai Super Kings are ₹43.4 crore and nine open slots. Other teams will have to plan meticulously because of tighter finances.

Purse left with each team:

Kolkata Knight Riders – ₹64.3 crore (13 slots)
Chennai Super Kings – ₹43.4 crore (9 slots)
Sunrisers Hyderabad – ₹25.5 crore (10 slots)
Lucknow Super Giants – ₹22.95 crore (6 slots)
Delhi Capitals – ₹21.8 crore (8 slots)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru – ₹16.4 crore (8 slots)
Rajasthan Royals – ₹16.05 crore (9 slots)
Gujarat Titans – ₹12.9 crore (5 slots)
Punjab Kings – ₹11.5 crore (4 slots)
Mumbai Indians – ₹2.75 crore (5 slots)

Cameron Green, Venkatesh Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi expected to attract big bids

With his all-around ability, Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is predicted to be one of the most pricey acquisitions. Strong interest will probably also come for Indian players Venkatesh Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi.

Many teams are also expected to aim for young and uncapped players. With huge purses and evident team needs, bidding wars might erupt, therefore this little auction becomes a crucial event before IPL 2026 gets underway.